Demarcus Walker Describes Rookie Struggles

During his rookie campaign, Demarcus Walker had to transition from defensive end to linebacker. 2017 proved to be a difficult year.

Injuries hammered the Denver Broncos linebacker position in 2017. Shane Ray was dealing with wrist issues. Shaq Barrett was out for a bit. Demarcus Walker was asked to step up and contribute at linebacker.

According to the second year player, transitioning from defensive end to linebacker was not easy. Who could blame him? Moving to a new position as a rookie is certainly not easy. Learning new techniques at a new position can make the transition even more challenging.

After an OTA session, Demarcus Walker discussed the challenges that the linebacker position brought to him in 2017.

“Really, it is just a lot. Learning coverage was the hardest part. Then just the technique and everything. But the coverage was just — had to pick it up right then and there throughout the season. That was probably the only thing that was really challenging.” [Quote from Denver Broncos PR]

Demarcus Walker is using this offseason to get back into the defensive end position. He appears to be doing well by bulking up. Now with the linebacker corp obtaining Bradley Chubb in April’s draft, Walker is looking to return to his original position.

Transitioning to the NFL was not an easy process for Demarcus Walker, as he told the media.

Next: Isaiah McKenzie Looks To Improve in Year Two

“It was really a gut check. But I just maintained. I’ve been through worse things in my life. Like I just told them earlier, I had to finish out strong. That was my biggest key.” [Quote obtained from Denver Broncos PR]

Broncos Country is looking forward to what Demarcus Walker can bring to the defense in year two. He has gained some praise from the other members of the team. That is a good sign going into mini camp.